Several homes have reportedly been set ablaze as suspected terrorists killed at least five people and abducted multiple residents in an attack on the Baga community in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.
The attackers struck early Tuesday, forcing villagers to flee while their houses were destroyed. A resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, said over 160 armed men invaded the community, using explosives to demolish properties.
“More than 160 terrorists attacked Baga early this morning, burning houses with explosives. As of this evening, the entire community is engulfed in flames with thick smoke rising,” the source said.
At least eight members of the local vigilante group were injured while trying to repel the attackers, but they were overpowered by the assailants’ superior firepower. The injured are currently receiving medical attention.
Sources reported that the attackers had previously rustled cattle from nearby Nada village on Monday before moving into Baga.
Security agencies have been deployed to restore order, though the police have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.